OK, I will admit, I am now a member of the Kelley James Russell cult.
Kelly James Russell is Crimson. This is immutable truth. Though hometown Finger Lakes born and bred, he is a celebrated grad from that famed institution in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Thank God for a less than thrilling experience at the Lincoln Center Jazz Center, and a fortuitous visit to Fox Run Vineyards, lest this talented young winemaker might have mistakenly gone in another direction.
Kelby James Russell Wines started out as a conversation with Dave Whiting, founder and owner of Red Newt Cellars. Whiting suggested that Russell might need a separate wine project, a creative outlet so to speak. Something he could call his own. Meanwhile the wines at Red New have continued to improve and shine under Russell's reign.
Last July I was up in the Finger Lakes and determined to investigate the cult status these wines were achieving. That proved problematic, as the wines are made in small quantities and because of their treasured status, sell out quickly.
The first bottles were released in 2015. There was a Riesling 2013 bottled July 2014 and released in 2015; a Dry Rose (of Cabernet Franc) 2013; and a Cabernet Franc 2013 bottled in July, 2014 and released in 2015. All were eagerly anticipated and performed quite well.
When I finally found a the single bottle I would enjoy, it was at Red Newt Cellars. The Kelby James Russell Dry Rose 2016 made from 100% Cabernet Franc. The grapes were grown as the Nutt Road Vineyard of Anthony Road Wine Company, on the northwest side of Seneca Lake.
The grapes were harvested on October 14th & 18th, 2016 where 10% of the fruit was placed in the tank as whole clusters. The wine was fermented to complete dryness, and cold stabilized immediately post-fermentation. The wine was released in June of 2017
The wine got an 88 in Wine Enthusiast magazine. Anna Lee Ijima wrote, "Electric-pink color and piercing acidity add to the unique personality of this bold angular Cabernet Franc rosé. Tart sour-cherry and raspberry flavors are pristine and primary, but nuanced with lingering hints of bramble and savory herb. This is a refreshingly substantive style of rosé to enjoy with even heartier fare well into the fall months."
I was completely surprised by the mouthfeel and flavor of this wine. A luscious wine, with lots of tropical fruit, strawberries, cherries, lime, and grapefruit. Vibrant and impressive, flavorful and refreshing. Loved it.
I will be hunting down more of these wines. I guess you can say I've joined a cult. Great job Kelby!!!!